RULE #1:

Perform the ascent with your BC control in hand, ready to use.

RULE #2:

Keep your regulator in your mouth so you can continue to use it, keep water out of your mouth, maintain normal control and have the psychological security of the regulator in place.

RULE #3:

Look up, relax and continue breathing in and out.

RULE #4:

If at all possible (buoyancy and air allowing), perform a safety stop at about 15 feet using the remaining air from your cylinder.